Ricky Gervais ‘slowly’ writing a full series of Derek

Ricky Gervais has revealed that his new comedy drama Derek will become more than just a one-off TV episode.

The Office actor is to star as main character Derek Noakes of the show, which centres around the lives of staff working in an old people’s home.

Ricky Gervais admits he is ‘slowly’ writing a full series of Derek (PA)

While it is currently a one-off production, Ricky has announced on Twitter that a full series is likely to eventually follow.

He explained: ‘Thanks again you lovely twonks for all the good wishes for Derek tomorrow night. It’s only a one-off, but I am slowly writing a series.’

The programme focuses on Derek’s position as a care home worker and features his good friend and An Idiot Abroad star Karl Pilkington, who plays the part of Dougie, his co-worker and landlord.

Ricky has recently defended the show against criticisms that it makes fun of disabled people and those with learning problems.

The pilot episode of Derek, which is written and directed by the actor, has received mixed reviews from critics, with some suggesting that without Ricky’s involvement it would never have been commissioned.

Fans of Ricky and Karl can check out the new show tonight as it airs on Channel 4 at 10pm.